Diphenoxylate activates mu-opioid receptors in the GI tract, reducing peristalsis and increasing transit time. Atropine added in sub-therapeutic doses to discourage abuse.
At a glance
Class
Antidiarrheal Opioid Combination
Schedule
Controlled Substance
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Used for non-infectious diarrhea only
Cats more sensitive to opioid effects
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Stool frequencyResolution within 48hHydration status
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Diphenoxylate/Atropine?
Diphenoxylate/Atropine is a antidiarrheal opioid combination used in pets. Diphenoxylate activates mu-opioid receptors in the GI tract, reducing peristalsis and increasing transit time. Atropine added in sub-therapeutic doses to discourage abuse.
›What is Diphenoxylate/Atropine used for in pets?
Diphenoxylate/Atropine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for non-infectious diarrhea only; Cats more sensitive to opioid effects.
›What is the Diphenoxylate/Atropine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Diphenoxylate/Atropine is typically dosed as follows — Used for non-infectious diarrhea only: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Diphenoxylate/Atropine dose for cats?
For cats, Diphenoxylate/Atropine is typically dosed as follows — Cats more sensitive to opioid effects: 0.05–0.1 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Diphenoxylate/Atropine need a prescription?
Diphenoxylate/Atropine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database